Anne Arundel County Family Lawyer

Reliable Guidance for Families in Annapolis, Glen Burnie, and Surrounding Communities

Family law matters affect what matters most—your children, your home, your financial future, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re preparing for a divorce, negotiating child custody, or seeking guardianship, you deserve a legal advocate who understands the personal and legal stakes involved.

At Fanning Law, we represent individuals and families in Southern and Central Maryland with knowledge, experience, and care. Anne Arundel County family law attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. brings over 30 years of family law experience to every case. We don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions—we tailor our strategies to reflect your goals, values, and the unique facts of your situation.

A Full-Service Family Law Practice

From the Chesapeake Bay waterfront to the halls of the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court in Annapolis, we help clients navigate nearly every type of family law issue. Our practice includes:

Divorce

Whether you are pursuing a contested or uncontested divorce, we handle all legal aspects—property division, spousal support, custody, and child support—with the experience and dedication your case deserves. We help clients resolve disputes efficiently or advocate for them in court when necessary.

Child Custody and Visitation

We represent parents in establishing or modifying custody and parenting time arrangements, always with the child’s best interests in focus. In high-conflict cases, we can advise on co-parenting concerns, access schedules, and decision-making authority.

Child Support

We help ensure fair and accurate child support calculations based on Maryland’s guidelines, and we assist with enforcement or modification when circumstances change.

Alimony (Spousal Support)

We help clients seek or contest alimony based on factors such as need, ability to pay, duration of the marriage, and financial independence.

Property Distribution

Maryland is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. We work to identify, value, and divide assets and debts, including complex matters like business ownership and retirement accounts.

Separation Agreements

For couples living apart but not yet divorced, we draft enforceable separation agreements that address finances, parenting, and other key issues.

Modifications and Enforcement

Divorce and custody court orders can last for years, but in the meantime, life can change. We help clients seek or oppose modifications to custody, support, and visitation orders when appropriate. We also know the tools to enforce court orders when one party is failing to comply.

Paternity

We represent mothers, fathers, and alleged fathers in paternity proceedings that determine parental rights and responsibilities. Establishing legal paternity is often necessary before child support or custody rights can be asserted.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

We prepare and review agreements that help protect your financial interests and reduce the risk of disputes if a marriage ends.

Domestic Violence and Protective Orders

We represent both petitioners and respondents in protective order hearings in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court. If you are in danger or have been accused of abuse, we act quickly to safeguard your rights and your future.

Guardianship and Adoption

We assist individuals seeking legal guardianship over a minor or adult, as well as those pursuing various forms of adoption, including stepparent, relative, and adult adoption.

Why Anne Arundel County Residents Choose Fanning Law

Anne Arundel County is one of the most diverse and dynamic areas in Maryland, with a population that includes government employees, military families, professionals, and retirees. We understand the unique needs of local residents, and we’ve built a reputation for delivering straightforward legal advice and personalized service.

We also bring deep familiarity with the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court, where family law cases are handled. Whether your matter is being heard in Annapolis or involves proceedings in other parts of the state, our insight into local procedures, judges, and court expectations helps us advocate effectively for our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Anne Arundel County

What’s the difference between legal separation and divorce in Maryland?

Maryland does not have a legal status known as “legal separation,” but spouses can live apart and enter into a separation agreement that addresses issues like child custody, support, and finances while they remain legally married.

Can I get a divorce without going to court?

Yes, if you and your spouse agree on all terms (custody, support, alimony, property), you can pursue a mutual consent divorce, which often requires only a brief, uncontested court appearance.

Do grandparents have custody or visitation rights in Maryland?

In limited circumstances, grandparents can petition for custody or visitation, particularly if it serves the best interests of the child and one or both parents are unavailable or unfit.

What happens if my ex-spouse refuses to follow the custody or support order?

We can take steps to enforce existing court orders, including filing for contempt. Maryland courts have the power to impose penalties or compel compliance.

Is mediation required in Anne Arundel County family law cases?

The court may order mediation in custody or visitation disputes. We prepare clients thoroughly for mediation to help them reach productive, enforceable agreements.

Family Law Support with a Personal Touch

Family law matters aren’t just legal—they’re personal. At Fanning Law, we approach each case with care, respect, and commitment to the people behind the paperwork. We take time to understand your goals, explain your options in plain language, and build a clear plan for success.

Whether you’re facing a contentious custody case, preparing to adopt, or working out the terms of a divorce, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Serving Family Law Clients Throughout Anne Arundel County

From Annapolis to Glen Burnie, Severna Park to Edgewater, we’re proud to serve families throughout Anne Arundel County. Our firm is easily accessible and responsive to your needs. When you work with Fanning Law, you get a legal team that knows the local courts and cares about your outcome.

Contact an Anne Arundel County family lawyer at Fanning Law, LLC today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the next step toward resolving your family law matter with strength and confidence.